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What is Pain and Suffering Worth in a Maryland Car Accident Claim?

 Posted on June 20, 2025 in Car Accidents

Hagerstown, MD car accident attorneyMaryland law recognizes that car accidents can result in losses with no inherent monetary value, including the pain and suffering accompanying severe injuries and losses. Quantifying the economic damages related to car accidents, such as medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages, is relatively straightforward. But how do you assign value to the physical and emotional pain that you experience in the aftermath of your accident? Our experienced Bethesda, MD car accident lawyer will ensure that your claim reflects the impact that the accident has on your life.

What Qualifies as Pain and Suffering After a Car Accident in Maryland?

According to Maryland law, pain and suffering are part of the non-economic damages that are recoverable in a personal injury claim. Factors that contribute to pain and suffering include:

  • Physical pain: Both the injuries and treatments for those injuries can result in significant physical pain. If you were hurt to the point of debilitation, you should be compensated for that pain.

  • Impairment: Some injuries, like burns or deep lacerations, may lead to permanent disfigurement. If you are left with a disability or disfigurement, it can cause significant pain and suffering.

  • Mental anguish: Pain and suffering commonly cause emotional distress and can result in depression, anxiety, insomnia, and even post-traumatic stress disorder.

  • Reduced quality of life: If you can no longer do things that you once loved to do because your injuries inhibit you, that can reduce your quality of life in serious, meaningful ways. 

Most would agree that pain and suffering deserve compensation, but how is it possible to assign monetary value to them? Insurance companies are known to use automated computer systems to calculate the value of non-economic damages, often producing low, unfair offers. An experienced personal injury attorney will ensure you are not shortchanged.

How Is Pain and Suffering Calculated in a Car Accident Case?

There are two methods commonly used to calculate pain and suffering after a car accident. The "multiplier method" is used most often. This involves choosing a number between one and a half and five, and then multiplying that number by the value of the economic damages, including medical expenses and lost wages. More severe injuries, such as brain or spinal cord injuries, typically justify a higher multiplier.

Another way of calculating damages, known as the "per diem" method, involves allocating a certain amount of money for each day since the accident. The cut-off date is often arbitrary and may not accurately reflect the duration of your pain and suffering. Your attorney will help you understand the value of your claim and walk you through the appropriate method for determining it. Note that Maryland does cap noneconomic damages for car accident victims; as of June 2025, the cap is $950,000. In October, this will change to $965,000.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Washington County, MD Car Accident Attorney

Before you file a collision claim, talk to the Hagerstown, MD car accident lawyers at Whitlock Law. We have recovered over $50 million in compensation for our clients and understand the value of the pain and suffering that victims of negligent drivers incur. We will never settle just because it is easier to go to court. Our firm will fight to protect your right to fair and adequate financial compensation. Contact us today at 301-565-1655 to schedule your free consultation.

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